Many things may lead to an upset stomach such as certain foods or conditions relating to the stomach like stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, conditions like flatulence, indigestion, gas and diarrhea may also be to blame. Upset stomachs can lead to nausea, vomiting and mild to moderate stomach pain. Changes to your diet such as eliminating certain foods may help reduce the frequency of upset stomach. Certain herbs containing anti-spasmodic and calming properties may also help ease an upset stomach. Speak with your physician before making changes to your diet or using herbs.
Ginger
The underground stem of the ginger plant, also known as the rhizome, is commonly used medicinally and as flavoring for foods and drinks. According to Medline Plus, ginger is often used to treat a variety of stomach problems including nausea, colic, upset stomach, gas, flatulence, diarrhea and morning sickness. Daily ginger consumption should not exceed 4 g. For general upset stomach, two ginger capsules containing 1 g of ginger may be taken up to three times per day as needed.
Peppermint
Peppermint is used as flavoring in foods and other consumable products and is also commonly used to treat conditions relating to the stomach. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint contains calming and numbing agents that help soothe the smooth muscles of the stomach while improving bile flow during the digestion process. Peppermint tea may be drunk up to five times per day between meals as needed for upset stomach.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is another member of the mint family that produces a calming and numbing effect similar to that of peppermint. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lemon balm has been used since the Middle Ages to improve appetite and reduce pain associated with gas, flatulence, bloating, indigestion and colic. Scientists think the eugenol in lemon balm is responsible for its calming and numbing effects. For general upset stomach, gas, flatulence and indigestion, capsules containing 300 to 500 mg of dried lemon balm may be taken up to three times per day as needed.
Warnings
If you are diagnosed with certain conditions relating to your digestive system such as gastrointestinal reflux disease, or GERD, you should not use peppermint as an alternative treatment. Additionally, if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, you should speak with your doctor before using herbs as an alternative treatment. Herbs should not be given to children without consulting with a pediatrician first.
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